CoJ on Channel 4, 4thought

http://www.4thought.tv/themes/how-did-you-choose-your-new-faith/patrick-day-childs?autoplay=true

Anyone who talks about Jediism and refers to the census in the UK as some sort of real thing that isn't a joke has no clue what they're talking about

F.Y.I I had actually applied to do this interview myself (as I think Baral Fobre had) but it seems they went for CoJ instead

I can't say this officially, as I'm not a member of the council but I think I can be fairly right in saying that this guy has

NOTHING TO DO WITH TOTJO

I only weep that his views will be taken as a given...

My thoughts - I don't discriminate on the basis of appearance/clothing/accessories etc. But my gut feeling is that the way that this guy has presented himself, in conjunction with some of the things he said, will only serve to reinforce stereotypes among the masses, when he could have used it as an opportunity to help break them.

I did like the point he made about how Jediism can't be wrong if it's not hurting anyone though.

I have to Agree with V-Tog on appearances. As the old anecdote goes, "You only have one chance at a first impression." and to be honest while the message itself is a good one, the delivery seems to leave a bit to be desired. Hopefully it will spark some interest, but as in most media circles, they are going to choose the most outrageous and flamboyant example possible to boost ratings, views, hits, etc. As with any religious movement, there are always going to be open debates on just about every aspect of said religion, but I do agree that I feel they chose the most stereotypical example they could find to portray Jediism.

Not very informative. Opens up by turning on a lightsaber and talks about how he liked Star Wars and not really delving into what Jediism is...I know there is only so much time they have to talk, but still...say something informative that isn't going to make us come off as s group of nerds. And I agree, using the census wasn't a very good thing. Common sense would tell you that people put it down just because it was there. I've got nothing against him, just think he should have thought things out a little more. If I were looking into Jediism and saw this video, I wouldn't be very intrigued. Any time you make a video, you have the think about the people watching it. You have to look at it from there perspective. It is then that you can be more prepared and make better points.

Xmortis wrote: I have to Agree with V-Tog on appearances. As the old anecdote goes, "You only have one chance at a first impression." and to be honest while the message itself is a good one, the delivery seems to leave a bit to be desired. Hopefully it will spark some interest, but as in most media circles, they are going to choose the most outrageous and flamboyant example possible to boost ratings, views, hits, etc. As with any religious movement, there are always going to be open debates on just about every aspect of said religion, but I do agree that I feel they chose the most stereotypical example they could find to portray Jediism.

Agreed

I was going to make a post about how ultimately first impressions don't really matter

After all those who are truly interested will look beyond that and if they don't then why would we wish to have such people representing us?

But I will be honest with you. First impressions do matter.

They matter, because it isn't the Jedi who already follow and believe in Jediism that we have to get to take us seriously, it is those who don't have the time to delve deeper into what we are about

But honestly I don't really have a problem with him

Yeah with first impressions he looks 'odd' to say the least, but I don't mind

He is no doubt well meaning and kind hearted and hopefully brings happiness to many people

It is when he starts quoting a census that uses results that were put there as a joke and are completely fabricated and unfounded in reality that I have an issue

'Jediism is the 4th largest religion' - That statement is what makes me think he is quite obviously unfit for purpose, at least for press interviews and being allowed to give a basic knowledgeable account of events.

Jedi Master? Perhaps. Someone who blindly uses completely ridiculous and misleading figures to lie to the public for political gains and to get attention in the media? Yes.


N.B. This is a very, very strongly worded response and I am very aware of that. But I just want to make my position crystal clear. I am not angry at the moment, I don't really get angry so this is not a completely emotionally blinded response

I am more frustrated and perhaps worried about the repercussions of this

CoJ (who I believe are still a for-profit company with a shareholder and thus not a church) have so far shown to be, and continue to show, that they are a joke

He is a master by virtue of being on the council.

Personally I don't feel the need to be taken seriously by others!

I hope that my actions speak for themselves!

I believe that when the time is right others, like us, will find Jediism and hopefully live a fuller life because of it!

Akkarin, clearly your hair isn't nearly funky enough to have gotten the interview!

I don't want to cause any arguments or further disagreements with the 'church of jediism' by voicing my opinions, but I must agree they are pretty in line with much of what the community have stated before.

After speaking with another representative from channel 4, I've secured further interest and made it clear there are more Jediism communities out there and by showing only one representative from the 'church of jediism', they are not doing the Jedi faith justice. I do believe that a new producer has taken on the responsibility of the documentaries so it is a different person to contact than before, but she's very interested and I'm very close to getting her to say "yes" to interviewing me and others from the wider Jediism community.

If you want to be involved, PM or email me your email address and I'll forward it on, or alternatively stay tuned on here for further updates from me and I'll let you know when she's confirmed she wants more people and will post her contact details.

MTFBWY

Baral

They got a US presence??? Because I'm totally for an actual interview....

Wait...I want to get on Oprah's Next Chapter- anyone know how I can secure a slot with HER?

I posted this at Ashla Knights as a response to the video. May as well post it here as well:

You Represent Your Order in Public

Or in some cases, an entire community. So when you are given opportunities to speak publicly (whether it is a sermon, lecture, on television or radio), know how to conduct yourself in a manner you do not portray the wrong idea.

What you wear: It accounts for a lot. If you show up with a crazy hair color and wearing an out-there outfit, people will just find more reason to ridicule you.

What you say: Know the facts. If you don't actually know something, don't say it at all. If you THINK you know what you are talking about, first double check by asking those around you.

"Permission": Or rather, just ask the people you are representing what they think. Someone might make some good points, and you'll realize you might not be the person for the job. Or heck, you may find they give you some good coaching tips.

How you act: If you give the portrayal that you are just a fan-boy/girl, that's all people are going to see. And then, they'll just laugh without ever listening to what you have to say.

Stereotypes: TRY not to feed the stereotypes. You've been around long enough to know what those are. So if there is one that is inaccurate, or that really makes you and your group look bad, refrain from it. You can be that way in your own time.